Direct flights boost service from San Jose to Chicago, Newark

United Airlines is adding non-stop service from Mineta International Airport in San Jose to Chicago and Newark, N.J. starting next March.

Mineta San Jose International Airport officials announced Monday that United Airlines will offer nonstop flights from San Jose to both Chicago and Newark, New Jersey starting in March.

Beginning March 9, United Airlines will offer two daily flights from San Jose to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and one daily flight to Newark Liberty International Airport, airport officials said.

The destinations were chosen because they are highly requested by business and leisure travelers.

Additionally, the Newark airport serves as United’s hub in the New York area, while the Chicago airport serves as United’s hometown hub, airport officials said.

The flights will use a Boeing 737-800 aircraft that can seat 166 people and is equipped with Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment options, according to airport officials.

San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said in a statement:

“We know our residents and businesses will appreciate United Airlines’ additional flights in San Jose and the extra time that they can save by flying out of Silicon Valley’s airport.”

Currently, the airport offers three daily flights to Chicago O’Hare Airport on American Airlines and one to Chicago Midway International Airport on Southwest Airlines.

Additionally, JetBlue Airways offers one daily flight to John F. Kennedy International Airport from San Jose, according to airport officials.